Project 16

Final Reflection Video

Blog Post #13

Instructions:
Research apps designed to help kids with reading disabilities. Choose 5 and describe what the activity is and how it would benefit a child with disabilities. Give your opinion on it and whether or not you would use it in your classroom.

1. Speak it!: This app is useful because it allows kids to her what is in front of them. They can allow the app to do things such as read text, emails, stories, etc. I find that usual as long as it is not used as a crunch when a child is too lazy to attempt to say the word on their own.
2. Read&Write This allows kids to practice writing their letters and words. A child can also trace letters and hear the sound a letter makes. This seems like a helpful tool to those learning fundamentals of reading and writing. Very useful!
3. Read 2 Me This app provides a library of text that can be read allowed. This will allow the student to hear words they are unfamiliar with and know how to say them.
4. See Read Say This app allows students to become familiar with the most common sight words with fun activities, games, and other ways of practicing.
5. Reading Trainer This app helps kids improve their reading speed and other abilities. This app focuses on practicing and repetition and would be good for the average reader who may be a little weaker than other classmates.

Blog Post #14

Joel Klein's article talks on things that can be improved to provide our children with the best education they could possibly receive.
Problems and solutions:

1. Better teachers: in order to improve teachers we need to pick from the best. The teachers need academic training in order for them to provide the education the students deserve.We need a new way of recruiting teachers that would require us to recruit from the top third of graduate. Lastly, we should reward teachers.
2. Seniority: When layoffs happen, the teacher who has been there\ the least amount of time goes, but that does not rid the school of bad teachers, but rather newer teachers and possible new ways of teaching. The least effective teacher should go, allowing school to flourish and not downgrade. Lower class schools deserve great teachers, too.
3. Lack of Professionalism in teaching: Attract our best students,  developing a demanding "knowledge base" along with a "formal set of … peer relationships." It was even suggested to require an internship that could last up to three years. Given this amount of time, performance can be evaluated.

Joel Klein makes some wonderful points. Being an educator is no longer looked at as highly as a law degree or medical degree. The respect for it has plummeted and because of that, teacher's do not strive to be their best, do their best, or even go above and beyond. I agree to an extend with the ideas proposed to help take the degree back to the professional standing it deserves. Our future rests in the hands of these educators and we should provide nothing but the best of the best for our students. Would you go to a second string doctor who was bottom of his class when you know you could have the top ranked doctor? No. Then why should our future leaders not have the same opportunities?

It is important that we fill our classrooms with the best teachers around. It should not matter how long a teacher has been at a school. A job should not be guaranteed if they are not producing the results that are necessary to create classrooms full of learning. Everyone is replaceable just like everyone deserves a chance to prove they are the better candidate. In order to keep everyone working to their full potential, they need to understand slacking will not be tolerated. Professional positions understand that halfway doing something will not get them by, This is a necessity for acquiring knowledgeable people to fill the role of teachers who lead our future.

It is important to provide our children with the best possible education they can have. This starts off with the role of the teacher. This type of work is not easy and should be taken seriously at all times. In order to guarantee our future get what it needs to succeed, we must provide them with the necessary tools. Most importantly, a well-known and seriously PROFESSIONAL to teach them.

Blog Post #5 Part 2

Add caption

Personal Learning Network
Throughout my EDM 310 experience I have been able to connect with people all over the world through social media, blog posts, comments, and videos. I have established my own PLN as each day goes on in this course. The numerous other resources that have been made available to me through this learning experience have opened my eyes to the different ways in which I can help my students learn more efficiently. This has also allowed a resource to be open in which I can ask for help from other teachers and administrators in order to provide the kids in my class with the greatest learning environment and experiment they could possibly have.

Part B

C4K Summaries

Garrett's Blog:
We are reading Wonder in English right now. Mr. Browne says when given a choice between being right or being kind, be kind. I think that is the right thing to do because when being right you can be rude and you can be right about bad stuff. When someone is having a bad day if your nice to them it can change their whole day. Mr Browne makes very good comments.\
I commented:
 Hey Garrett! My name is Payton and I am an EDM 310 student at the University of South Alabama. 
You seem to have a very positive attitude toward the book. Keep up the good work and good luck with all of your classes!

Dakota's Blog

1.. To Get A Tatoo

2. To have 8 Kids

3. Graduate High school

4. Graduate College  School

5. Open My own restaurant

6. Get my own House

7. Get Married

8. Get Liscense

9.Visit Alaska

10.  Visit John Hanson French Immersion

Imma miss yall so much, I knew hall since kindergarten some of y’all immma miss😰😥😫😩👀👀👂

I commented:

Hey Dakota! 
I think it is super cool that you want to own your own restaurant. What kind of food do you like to cook? I work for a restaurant myself in Alabama and love it. Maybe one day I can have one of my own one day, but we will see. Good luck with all your future goals! Nothing is impossible with hard work and dedication.

Henley's Blog

Jonah thought that everything didn’t seem right he became angry. So Jonah prayed ” Isn’t this what I said, Lord when i was still at home? That is what i tried to forestall by fleeing Tarshish. I knew that you are gracious  and compassionate God, slow  to anger and abounding love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now ,Lord , take  away from my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.” The Lord replied saying ” Is it right for you to be angry?”  Then Jonah went into town and made a shelter then the Lord  provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah for protection. Then dawn the next morning God provided a worm which killed the plant. When the sun rose, God provided a hot breeze and the sun beaming on Jonah’s head  so that he grew weak. He didn’t want to live any longer. Then again Jonah said ” It would be better for me to die than to live. Then God asked Jonah ” Is it right for you to be mad at the plant?”  He said ” I am so angry that I wish i were dead.”

God was teaching Jonah to be satisfied with what he already has. If you are blessed with something, be thankful, have a good attitude because it can all be taken away. Jonah responded the way he did because he did get the significance of it all. God was trying to teach Jonah that you have to work for everything. In Jonah 4:11 it says “But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about the great city?” Jonah responded ungratefully  because he didn’t work for it. In my ending of Jonah, Jonah and God work everything out and Jonah realizes that he was just learning to forgive his enemies. Jonah repents and gets forgiveness from God then the story would end.

I commented:

Henley, 
Great job! Forgiveness is such an important quality to have and I’m so happy to see you recognize that. Wonderful post and keep up the great work!

Blog Post 12

C4T #4

Uncomfortable, but Worth It
This post basically talks on what the author learned as a teacher. She explains that to truly teach, one must put their guard down and be willing to learn, to let the students drive, and be allowed to change and develop. The beauty of this article is the inspiration and real life aspect of teaching she displays.
I commented:
As I read more of your posts, I am falling in love with the advice you give. Honestly, I believe this has been the best advice for a future teacher. The fact that even as the main source of knowledge in a classroom, there is still so much to learn. I plan on saving this post for days when I am beating myself up over the small things in my classroom. - See more at: http://venspired.com/uncomfortable-but-worth-it/#comment-106108
Ready? Set, Make!
This is a fun, but short post on what learning truly is. The idea is to go beyond turning the pages of the book and reading what it says. Creativity is key to teaching and learning.
I commented:
Such a simple post, but what a loud statement it makes. Learning is so much more than following the pages of a text book. Quite frankly, I find it kind of boring. I want my students to love to learn. How amazing would it be to enter a classroom full of kids eager to know what they are learning for the day?? I am so excited about being THAT kind of teacher. - See more at: http://venspired.com/ready-set-make/#comment-106110
The Danger of Labels
This post talks about how degrading labeling a child as Autistic, special, etc., can be to a child. When we label a child, we forget to see exactly who they are. Often times, we hide them behind the tshirt they were with the title they flaunt.
I commented:
I must first start off by saying how wonderful of a statement you just made. I was not expecting to be effected by such a read! Having a history with children who are intellectually disabled, I see far too often the effects that labeling can have on them. They are all so beautiful, but most importantly EQUAL to all other children.
This has, by far, been my favorite blog post I have stumbled upon.
Thank you so much.

Post #11

Learning is Messy
Brian Cosby used project based learning in his classroom with some students being second language students. Through technology, he captured the attention of students with science. I found that extremely interesting because science can truly be a tough subject to keep students attention with. His "High Hopes" projects inspires me with his new and inivative ways of teaching, especially with second language learners. I want to be able to make a difference, just like Mr. Cosby.
Blended Learning Cycle
An A&P teacher, Paul Anderson, helps create a nifty way for students to remember what they have learned with helpful acronyms. As I watched this video, I realized how teachers are not just teachers, but rather creators. It is amazing to me how creative one must be in order to successfully teach a lesson, including one that has a few students who are struggling to understand the material. This video also inspired me to push myself in order to think of creative ways to help my future students learn.

Blog Post #10

     In Little Kids.....Big Potential, so many cool ideas were used for technology in the classroom. Kathy Cassidy does not just bring your everyday technological resources in. I was actually quite surprised to learn she uses things such as Nintendo DS. As a future teacher I would have never thought to bring something that, in my opinion, would be a distraction to a young child into my classroom to benefit their learning. She does a great job showing us how thinking outside of the box can get outstanding results for students of all age ranges.
     In the three videos involving an interview between Dr. Strange and Ms. Cassidy (Interview Part 1, Part 2, & Part 3), I learned a lot. To put it simply, technology does not have to be complex. It can be easy and it can be beneficial, even in the simplest form such as Youtube or the blogs like we write every week. By using the technology we are already familiar with and applying it to our lessons and work in the classroom, we are already advancing our students. I took this from the interviews, it does not have to be a challenge to involve technology in the classroom. I look forward to having my own classroom and being able to apply my skills into my lessons.

C4K Summaries

Mrs. Lombard's 7th Grade
Lennon wrote about a book called Secret of the Desert Stone. She discusses the antagonists and protagonists of the store. She proceeds to give a quick overview of what the store is about in an attempt to get her readers to read the book.
I commented:
Lennon, 
I want to start off by saying I really love your name! 
Now to your post. You did an excellent job describing the book for someone like me who has never even heard of it! There were just enough details given to make me want to know more and keep me feeling curious. Maybe I will have to check this book out in the future. 
Great job! 
cobbpaytonedm310.blogspot.com
In Skye's Blog, she gave students advice on being in school. She wants to help students survive their high school years. Skye does an excellent job giving her real life examples in order to help people relate.
I commented:
Skye! I loved reading your post. I related to everything you said so much! I am currently in my third year of college and have days where I miss high school incredibly much. I am a lot like you in the sense that I would do it all over again if I could. Where’s a redo button when you need one? Take advantage of the present state and have a blast in high school and college (if you choose that path) because they can be the most memorable times of your life. Great read!
Payton
cobbpaytonedm310.blogspot.com
Kutter's Blog Post discusses a book he was currently reading, The Fourteenth Goldfish. He says he is in the middle of it and describes what is going on. At times, he seems a little unsure of the plot.
I commented:

Hi Kutter!

     It seems that the book you are reading may have challenged you a little and that is a good thing! A piece of literature that makes a person think is the best kind, in my opinion. Do not be afraid to ask questions if it ever seems that you do not understand what is happening in the story.

Good job!

Payton C

Project 9

Post Blog #9

7 Essential for Project Based Learning
1. A need to know.
2. A driving question.
3. A student voice and choice.
4. 21st Century Skills
5. Inquiry and Innovation
6. Feedback and Revision
7. Publicly Present the Project
Project Based Learning
Project based learning is very important. In this video, it asked the audience, as a teacher, are you taking advantage of all that technology has to offer. Project based learning allows students to work over a period of time to answer a driving question. As the students create products they will learn:

• Collaboration skills
• Communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Career & Life skills

What is your motivation to do well in school?
It is very obvious in this video that kids love knowing that they are doing well and love getting positive reinforcement. This video made me realize that even teacher have an effect on whether a not a student loves school and how huge of an impact on life that can have. These students have goals and look forward to their futures and want to know that they are capable of reaching them. To have someone who believes in you makes a challenging task a lot less intimidating. That, in my opinion, is the role of a teacher.
High School Teachers Meet the Challenges of PBL Implementation 
Teachers are challenged to turn their regular styles of teaching into PBL styles. The teachers are up to the challenge and learn to effectively use PBL in even the more difficult subjects such as math. This allows for a more enjoyable experience not only for the teacher, but also for the student. New styles of teaching seem to provide more effective ways of learning.
Two students solve the problem of watery ketchup with new cap
This video talks of two high school boys who explain why water comes out of a ketchup bottle when you squeeze it. Their love of ketchup set them up on a successful PBL way of learning and helped them better understand and explain their results. Throughout their studies and model representations it was very clear that they loved what they were doing because they were involved in something they were curious about. This type of involvement helped them flourish as PBL learners. It was really neat to see how two high school seniors could figure something like that out.

Project #13

Is it Magnetic?

Image Source: Texas Watchdog

This project teaches students in second grade the difference between magnetic and nonmagnetic objects. This project also teaches students how to work collaboratively to complete research and writing assignments in a timely manner,

Is it Magnetic? Lesson Plan
Is it Magnetic? Lesson Calendar
Is it Magnetic? Project/Evaluation Rubrics
Is it Magnetic? Project Checklist

VIrtual Poster Sample (Included at end of Lesson Plan)

C4T Summaries

How to create Acrobat PDF File was a very informative post on how to do just what the title says. In her blog, she tells how she teaches the students in her class how to create the PDF file step-by-step in a very user friendly read.
I commented:
Mrs. Miller,
Your post on the Adobe Acrobat was very informative! I am not very familiar with the program or what a portfolio is, so hearing you talk about it and describe how you used it is very useful. I am sure that I will be learning it soon in my EDM class at South Alabama. I also believe that the program will be helpful in my future as a teacher. Thank you.
New Zealand School Visits was one of my favorite C4T's I have had thus far. I was so curious of everything she learned from traveling to another country and in turn what she taught them. She talks of the different ways in which the students learn and what content they are taught, as well as, the different styles of learning environments that they are taught in.

I commented:
I am extremely amazed at the things you have been able to do as a teacher, and honestly quite jealous. You appear to be so passionate about finding the best ways to teach your students, as well as, finding the best ways they learn. I am inspired to follow down a similar path when I become a teacher of my own class. I find it so important to stay updated and on top of the newest technology and teaching methods, even from places like New Zealand. Wow! I look forward to reading more from you.

Blog Post 8

     In Randy Pausch's Video Lecture, I was able to learn many valuable lessons for my future career as a teacher. It seems as though Mr. Pausch is trying to make the audience realize that teachers are not the only one's in a classroom that teach, just like students are not the only ones who learn. He made me realize that in order to be a great teacher, a person must first realize that learning does not end when you graduate college. Each and every day can be a learning experience for not only the students, but also the teacher and in more than just one way. Teaching styles differ from person to person and new ones can be developed over the course of a teaching career. Students have a large impact on the way a teacher may implement a lesson or discuss a course. It is important to note that in order to teach, you must be willing to let your guard down and learn. Rewarding things are rarely easy, but are always worth it in the end.
     Mr. Pausch also discussed a concept which he referred to as "head fake." This seemed a little off to me when he first said it, but after he explained it, made such a difference in my thought process. To me, learning something new can be so much more exciting if you do not look at it as a chore or hassle, but rather something exciting and fun! Convince your mind that what you are doing is beyond just some boring learning exercise and turn it into some exciting thing that makes you forget that you are even learning. The idea is so simple, but could impact the way a person can perceive learning something different or challenging.
     I was inspired by this video lecture to change the way I perceive teaching and learning. I want to take a whole to perspective on what it means to teach and the different ways that I, as an educator, can inspire, grow, and most importantly, LEARN.

Blog Post 7

     In today's classroom, it is so very evident how important technology is and how quickly it is becoming a daily teaching tool. With the rapid growth, I have realized how necessary it is, as an upcoming teacher, to be well-rounded in that area of teaching. It has been proven that students respond better when technology is present and seem to retain information more when they have a hands-on form of learning. I know as a future teacher I could be more knowledgeable of technology, which is why I feel this class is so important for me. Another weakness of mine would be my organization. Lets face it, I am SO unorganized and it could pose a problem when I am trying to plan something out or find an important paper. A strength of mine is patience and energy. I love being around children and can always keep a smile on my face so naturally when I am around a child. This is so important because children respond so much better to a smile than a frown.

     We All Become Learners points out a very true, but not always obvious, fact: we are constantly learning ourselves, even as teachers. Each person brings to the table something they can teach each other. By teaching each other we can in turn teach students and help them to grow. Using IMovie and Alabama Virtual Library With Kindergarten discusses how introducing such technology to students is actually beneficial and successful to the younger children. Some of these students are doing exactly what we have done in my college course here at the University of South Alabama. I am beyond impressed! I feel challenged to do the same with the younger students I will teach in the future.

     Technology is such a vital aspect of teaching in this century. The videos I watch inspire me to include technology heavily in my classroom and to challenge my students, young or old, to use their technology in daily activities. There are so many ways to learn, and with the right guidance my students can be extremely successful in it.

C4K Summary

I previously summarized my two other C4K, so I here is a summary of my most recent reads.



Zachary:
Zachary's Post talked about a mythological book he was reading called The Throne of Fire, which he seemed to have some interest in. He talked about different characters and his least favorite one, a god who wears a speedo all the time, which weirded Zachary out.
I commented:
Hi Zachary!
Great job with your summary. It sounds like you’re reading quite the book. I cannot wait to hear more about that god who wears the speedo all the time. That sounds so strange! Keep up the good work. 
Ava:
Ava's Post was extremely descriptive. She did a wonderful job summarizing part 2 of Lemony Snicket and keeping the audiences attention. In her summary, she includes many character such as Cleo and Theodora, among others. She gives her opinion on certain situations and major plot events.
I commented:
Ava,
I love how descriptive you are with your writing! You make reading your post so much fun! You have me wondering what’s going to happen in part 3. I will have to read up on your next post. Great job!
Payton C
Kutter:
Kutter's Blog post discussed a book, The Fourteenth Goldfish, in which he expressed an interested in. He did seem somewhat confused on what was going on and left details out in order to make the reader interested in reading the book he discussed. He mentioned one incident in the book involving three characters.
I commented:
Hi Kutter!
     It seems that the book you are reading may have challenged you a little and that is a good thing! A piece of literature that makes a person think is the best kind, in my opinion. Do not be afraid to ask questions if it ever seems that you do not understand what is happening in the story.
Good job!
Payton C
Riley:

Riley's Blog Post talked about what he believed to be the norm for daily life. His writing touched on how when he was little, he thought a child was supposed to do the same job as their parents. He mentions how he will not rush into trying to find out what his future has in store for him, but that he believes it will all work out. He realizes he is young and is capable of doing whatever he sets his mind to.
I commented:
Hey Riley!
     Great work on your belief essay! Being a college student, I have changed my major more than once because deciding a life-long career is not easy. I love how you said that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. How true that is! Some people never realize how simple it is. I bet your hard work and dedication to whatever you decide to do in the future will result in much success for you. Good luck with the rest of your school year and keep up the good work.
Payton C.

Project 7B

Blog Post 6

     Additional Thought About Lessons, along with the other videos, is a conversation between Anthony Capps and Dr. Strange via webcam. The two talked about numerous topics during their different chats including things like lessons, units, goals, etc. Anthony Capps is a 3rd grade teacher in Baldwin County and was a past student of Professor Strange. In Discovery Education, Anthony talks about how children are more likely to retain information when a visual is present. The program allows the kids to research information in order to learn more about certain topics outside of a classroom teacher. Technology is also a topic discussed between the two. Don't Teach Tech-Use it discusses how relevant technology is in the classroom. He talks about how he would use the technology in his classroom. ICurio, like other conversations, discusses programs that are helpful in the classroom. It is a tool online that allows students to safely research and search online information.
     Though I only listed a few of the videos, many of the others revolved around the same topics. I learned many helpful programs and ideas that would benefit me in the classroom setting. Being able to use these programs and helpful hints from Anthony Capps will allow for a well-rounded class, but most importantly these skills will follow the children I teach throughout their lives.

Project 15

• WolframAplha is a very user-friendly, general search engine. One can easily find what they are looking for along with other fun things that can be acquired.
• Stumble Upon is a very unique search engine in the sense that it allows users to search different pages based off of their interests.
•  ChaCha is a search engine that allows a user to ask any question they may have and receive an answer. This engine seems to be useful when homework questions are asked or random bits of information.
• Info.com is a metasearch engine that pulls from major search engines, such as Google. The similar qualities of info.com to Google allow for an easy transition between engines.
• MathGuide.com is useful in helping answer math problems. It seems that it would be most beneficial to a student who is in a math course of some kind.
• Ask is a simple search engine with a very basic layout. The user-friendly mentality of the site allows user to simply type in the question they are having.
• Yahoo.com is a site that attracts many users. On the main screen, one will see a lot going on between weather, sports, and current events. This engine is useful in keeping updated with news and major events in the world.
• Dictionary is a useful search engine when looking for things related to vocabulary. The site allows translations, as well as, thesaurus searches and definitions It can really come in handy when writing a paper or learning new words.

Blog Post 5

What are Personal Learning Networks (PLN)?
Personal Learning Networks (PLN) consists of groups of people or single persons that someone who is wanting to learn interacts with and gains a knowledge that they did not previously have before. Before EDM 310, I did not have a clue what a PLN was or how it was relevant to today and my future as a teacher.
How can PLN's help you as a teacher?
PLN's will help tremendously because they are a link to all over the world. Having access to people of all different backgrounds, including education, science, and politics, will open doors for more opportunities for myself. Having knowledgeable resources will allow me to broaden my own knowledge and in turn help improve my future student's ability to learn.
How are they formed?
According to Dr. Strange it is necessary to figure out a "point of interest" and put in the work in order to receive necessary results. It may not always be easy at times, but once the information is found, a correct and quality PLN. Some useful sites, as recommended by Dr. Strange, include ones we use in our daily routines. (i.e. Facebook and Twitter.)
How to create a PLN?
Creating a PLN is quite simple. However, I was not aware of how easy it was or how useful it could be. A suggestion made by the instructions was Symbaloo, which was what I chose to be the most efficient for me. I can start by figuring out what it is I want to know and searching for the resources and people who can help me obtain it. Symbaloo creates an organized way of keep up with the information, both past and present, and collect it in a way that is most useful. It is important to ask help from those who have the knowledge you are wishing obtain. My other social media accounts, such as, Facebook and Twitter, will also prove to be a helpful thing to have.
Who will be the first additions to your PNL?
I feel like everyone has the same answer for this, but first off, I feel like it would be necessary to add my professors. They are an essential part of my development and the knowledge I currently have. It also does not hurt that I have been able to create bond with them that I would not be able to do with other resources. Next, I think I would do a little research to find out who and/or what would be most beneficial to me to follow up on and add to my PNL.

Sources not mention in text: http://www.johnstrange.com/edm310fall2009/PLN.pdf


C4K Summary

Kutter's Blog post discussed a book, The Fourteenth Goldfish, in which he expressed an interested in. He did seem somewhat confused on what was going on and left details out in order to make the reader interested in reading the book he discussed. He mentioned one incident in the book involving three characters.



Riley's Blog Post talked about what he believed to be the norm for daily life. His writing touched on how when he was little, he thought a child was supposed to do the same job as their parents. He mentions how he will not rush into trying to find out what his future has in store for him, but that he believes it will all work out. He realizes he is young and is capable of doing whatever he sets his mind to.

Blog Post 4

    When I was younger, I was always afraid of asking questions in class because of the fear of being wrong. As I have started my path of being a teacher, I have learned how important questions really are. EDM 310 has really brought me out of my shell when it comes to being curious and asking questions when I do not know the answer. Questions have been the leading force in my success in almost all of my classes.
     In the article Asking Questions to Improve Learning, the author talks a lot on the ways a teacher can be effective when asking questions. It is important to never lead a student to the answer. A teacher should want the student to think for themselves and formulate an answer. When asking the question, do not overwhelm students with numerous questions at once or difficult, unclear statements. As a teacher, you are responsible for deciding what the goal for the questions being asked are and should decide that ahead of time, and if the students do not understand what you are asking, then your goal cannot be reached. An instructor role is among the most important in directed students to the right answers.
     Questions are one of the most important ways to learn, in my opinion. Asking questions allows for an expansion of knowledge in the simplest and easiest way. Without questions we would not be challenged to think for ourselves and test our own abilities. No question is a dumb question and all are important.